Each year on June 12, Guyana stands with the global community to observe World Day Against Child Labour, a day dedicated to raising awareness and reaffirming the commitment to ending child labour in all its forms.
In 2024, an estimated 138 million children around the world were subjected to child labour, with over one-third engaged in hazardous work that puts their health, safety, and development at risk.
Child labour refers to work that is inappropriate for a child’s age and detrimental to their physical, emotional, or moral development.
Unlike safe, age-appropriate activities such as light chores or part-time work during school breaks, child labour exploits vulnerability and robs children of their right to a safe and nurturing childhood.
This year, under the global theme “Progress is clear, but there’s more to do: let’s speed up efforts,” Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton reaffirmed Guyana’s unwavering dedication to eradicating child labour.
“Guyana remains steadfast in its efforts to ensure that every child is allowed to thrive, grow and reach their full potential in a safe and nurturing environment,” the minister stated.
What is being done to spread awareness about child labour?
The ministry has planned a series of awareness events to raise awareness on the effects of child labour. There have been numerous workshops with probation officers and child protection officers to enhance coordination and response strategies.
This year, the ministry plans to visit more than 20 secondary schools across all regions to educate students and staff on the dangers of child labour.
Hosting of various competitions, walks and other sensitisation activities.
The ministry conducted over 3,000 inspections at industrial establishments across the country in 2024, surpassing their target by 15 per cent.
The labour ministry revealed in February 2025 that no cases of child labour were reported. These efforts reached an estimated 20,000 people in all regions of Guyana, including both employers and workers.
Another major milestone in the fight against child labour was in 2023 with the passing of the Combating and Trafficking in Persons Act No. 7, which prohibited the use, procuring and offering of children for the production or trafficking of narcotics; classified child pornography as a form of commercial sexual exploitation; and enabled higher penalties and charges if the victim of a crime is a child.
In a report published by the Bureau of International Labour Affairs, 22.1 per cent of children aged 7-14 were both in school and working in the year 2019. In 2022, a new report showed a decrease to 18.5 per cent for the same age category.
Minister Hamilton said his ministry will continue to spearhead efforts to create an environment that supports and enhances effective coordination and cooperation among all stakeholders in the fight to prevent and eradicate child labour in all its forms.
The minister also commended the work of those involved in eradicating child labour.
“Together, let us reaffirm our collected vision of a Guyana and a world where every child enjoys the promise of a safe, happy and enriching childhood.”
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